I cannot condone this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I cannot condone this" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing disapproval or refusal to accept a particular action or behavior. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, I must say that I cannot condone this behavior in our organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

I cannot condone this behaviour.

Independent

I generally approve of Pelosi's leadership in the House, but I cannot condone this.

Huffington Post

I am afraid that I cannot condone this statement.

Biology Direct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

I cannot condone the PA's performance or its behavior -- and I have told them so.

Huffington Post

But I cannot condone the killing of an animal simply for purposes of adornment --whether its jewelery from ivory, or clothing from its skin.

Huffington Post

I cannot condone what has happened on this occasion.

BBC

And although I can understand this to a degree, I cannot condone it.

Huffington Post

"Of course, I cannot condone such an environmentally unethical practice," he says, "but it was a useful skill to master".

The New York Times - Books

"As the father of two daughters, I cannot condone or defend Mr. Trump's behavior," the Russian leader said in a curt official statement.

The New Yorker

While I applaud James Lilley's sensitivity toward the Asian-American community, I cannot condone his calls for "timely investigative use of wiretaps, computer access, independent surveillance and informers" as a means of deterring Chinese intelligence efforts (Op-Ed, Sept. 12).

The New York Times

Even Mann, whose words featured prominently in early soundbites published from the emails, began an op-ed in the Washington Post with the words: "I cannot condone some things that colleagues of mine wrote".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I cannot condone this" when you want to express a firm but not overly aggressive disapproval of a specific action or behavior.

Common error

Avoid using "I cannot condone this" in casual conversations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "I don't agree with this" or "I disapprove of this" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I cannot condone this" functions as a declarative statement expressing disapproval or rejection of a particular action, behavior, or statement. It is used to assert a moral or ethical boundary, indicating that something is unacceptable to the speaker. Ludwig AI confirms the correct usage of the expression.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I cannot condone this" is a grammatically sound and usable expression to convey disapproval. Primarily found in news and media, science and formal contexts, it's less common in informal settings. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and suggests various alternatives like "I cannot accept this" or "I disapprove of this". When using it, consider the setting and audience to ensure the tone aligns with the intended message. The expression is most effective when expressing moral or ethical objections, as it carries a weightier sense of disapproval than a simple disagreement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I cannot accept this

Implies a refusal to agree with or tolerate something. Focuses on acceptance rather than condoning.

I cannot approve of this

Indicates a lack of endorsement or permission. More direct in its disapproval.

I cannot support this

Suggests a withdrawal of backing or advocacy. Implies a previous or potential endorsement.

I cannot endorse this

Similar to "I cannot approve of this", but often used in a more formal context.

I cannot sanction this

Formal term implying an official disapproval or prohibition.

I strongly disapprove of this

Emphasizes the intensity of the disapproval. More explicit and forceful.

I object to this

Formal declaration of disagreement or opposition. Suitable for legal or official settings.

I am against this

Simple and direct statement of opposition. Lacks nuance but is easily understood.

This is unacceptable to me

Focuses on the personal impact of the action or situation. Highlights personal boundaries.

I take exception to this

Expresses offense or strong disagreement. More confrontational in tone.

FAQs

What does "I cannot condone this" mean?

It means you disapprove of something and are unwilling to accept or support it. It's a way of expressing moral or ethical disagreement.

When is it appropriate to use "I cannot condone this"?

It's suitable for expressing disapproval in formal settings or when discussing ethical or moral issues. It's often used when explaining why you disagree with a particular action or decision.

Are there simpler ways to say "I cannot condone this"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "I cannot accept this", "I disapprove of this", or "I don't agree with this" depending on the context.

How does "I cannot condone this" differ from "I disagree with this"?

"I cannot condone this" carries a stronger moral or ethical weight than "I disagree with this". The first indicates a deeper level of disapproval, suggesting something is fundamentally wrong, while the latter simply indicates a difference in opinion.